Boys are born with a hood of skin, called the foreskin, covering the head (also called the glans) of the penis. In circumcision, the foreskin is surgically removed, exposing the end of the penis.

Parents who choose circumcision often do so based on religious beliefs, concerns about hygiene, or cultural or social reasons. Routine circumcision is usually performed during the first 10 days (often within the first 48 hours), either in the hospital or during religious ritual circumcisions.

The new Child Protection Act has revised legislation regarding circumcision. Please discuss this with your gynaecologist.